spcaLA: Friends for Life

Law Enforcement Division

Disaster Animal Response Team (DART)

DART is a mobile command post which contains a full communications system that is capable of monitoring and dispatching emergency services during disasters to provide temporary shelter for animals and front-line veterinary care. DART works with local, state, and national agencies to help families and their animals with medical, food and housing assistance.

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Formed in 1993, DART is uniquely capable of caring for the animal victims of disaster. Staffed by spcaLA volunteers, humane officers, veterinary staff and other professionals, DART has deployed to fires, riots, earthquakes, hurricanes and other catastrophic situations, including hurricanes Katrina, Rita and Ike, as well as the 1994 Northridge earthquake and the Station, Malibu, and San Diego California Wildfires.

DART equipment consists of an equipped mobile command center, portable kenneling, horse trailers and field rescue vehicles.

DART in Action

DART in New Orleans after Hurricane Katrina. spcaLA’s Dr. Halligan checks dog in New Orleans. DART member leads horse to safety during Rancho Palos Verde fire. DART member speaks to rancher during La Canada fire. One of DART’s vehicles during the Malibu fire. DART sets up kennels for lost dogs after Hurricane Rita. DART member evacuates animals at Sanctuary during La Canada fire. DART cools down an over-heated potbellied pig. DART transports animals to safety during La Canada fire. DART consoles horse during San Diego fire. DART feeds hungry dogs after Hurricane Ike. DART checks on horses during Malibu fire.